Possum browsing can severely damage mamaku, the black tree fern (left). Possums browse mamaku in spring when the new crop of fronds starts unfurling. The pith at the base of the young fronds is rich in protein and is a welcome food source after winter. The image on the right shows the same plant two years later, after possum control.
Te whakamahi i tēnei tūemi
Department of Conservation
Reference:
10049837 (left); 10049838 (right)
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